Former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is now the subject of an escalating multi-agency investigation into alleged financial impropriety during his tenure, as the country’s top criminal intelligence units intensify efforts to bring him to justice.

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) have both launched active investigations into Mr. Ofori-Atta’s financial activities, according to government officials. The probes come in parallel with a separate ongoing case by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), and collectively represent a significant ramp-up in legal pressure on the former minister.

Authorities have formally declared Ofori-Atta a wanted person. Justice Srem-Sai, Deputy Attorney General, told JoyNews in an interview that the government has commenced steps to locate and extradite Mr. Ofori-Atta, who is believed to be residing outside the country, possibly in the United States.

“The arrest comes in many forms,” said Mr. Srem-Sai. “You can arrest someone temporarily, but for extradition, you need to follow a formal process.”

That process, he noted, hinges on whether the alleged offenses also constitute crimes in the country where the former minister is located. Ghanaian officials are reportedly coordinating with law enforcement in the U.S. and are keeping other jurisdictions under review should Ofori-Atta’s location shift.

Once located, the Attorney General’s office plans to submit a formal extradition request. If granted, Mr. Ofori-Atta would be arrested, repatriated to Ghana, and face formal charges in court. He is expected to be cautioned upon arrival and may be granted bail pending trial, Mr. Srem-Sai added.

The legal action follows months of unsuccessful attempts by the OSP to secure Ofori-Atta’s appearance for questioning. With EOCO and NIB now in the fray, Ghana’s anti-corruption apparatus appears unified in its pursuit of the former finance chief.

Mr. Ofori-Atta, a key figure in the Akufo-Addo administration and architect of several of Ghana’s economic policies during his tenure.

Source:TheDotNews